‘Wilder’ Wildlife... Hunting & Fishing

De Smet is a favorite annual retreat for hunters and fishermen from across the nation and is one of South Dakota’s most popular hunting and fishing destinations. It is often called “Pheasant Country”. Pheasants, ducks, geese and deer are popular game that can be hunted in the area. Pheasant season traditionally opens on the third Saturday in October. Each spring and fall the skies are filled with thousands of snow, blue and Canada geese as they pass through on their annual seasonal migration. Every pond, slough and lake becomes a resting spot for the ducks and geese.

For the fishing enthusiasts, Lake Thompson is just eight miles from De Smet. It is well-liked for its beautiful campground, pleasant amenities, great fishing and large water area. It is full of Northern Pike, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Perch and Crappies. Ice fishing is a popular winter pastime here as well. A variety of stores offer hunting and fishing gear. There are also hunting and fishing guide services available. Hunting and fishing licenses can be purchased at the two gas stations on Highway 14 - The Mainstop and The Cowboy.

For a complete list of regulations and fees, refer to www.gfp.sd.gov or contact the SD Department of Game, Fish & Parks district office in Huron 605-353-7145.

Discover Your New ‘Wilder’ Frontier...

Each year 25,000 people from all fifty states and over twenty countries visit De Smet. While visiting, many tell us they sense a connection to ourLittle Town lifestyle. We hope you have a similar experience, and personally invite you to take a look around and consider the positive change De Smet might represent for you and your family. If you like what you see, we sincerely encourage you to make that thought a reality -- to become our neighbor, to raise your family here and to share in our vibrant small town way of life. You can count on us to do what we can to help.